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Looking deep into the expressive brown eyes of a gorilla is surely Africa's most profound and poignant wildlife encounter.
Volcanoes National Park in northwest Rwanda is prime mountain gorilla territory. This mountain paradise is a haven for mountain gorilla families and is ideal for close encounters and wonderful photo moments with these gentle giants
The perfect gorilla trekking safari for time-challenged travellers
Overview
Length: 3 days
Group Size: 1 - 6
Location: Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Departure Dates: To suit you
Prices and dates
2024 Rates | |
Number of travellers | Cost per person sharing |
1 | US$ 3,765 |
2 | US$ 2,865 |
4 | US$ 2,525 |
6 | US$ 2,415 |
Price includes:
Transfer to and from the airport in Kigali on arrival and departure days. Two nights’ accommodation in Rwanda on full board. All meals mentioned in the itinerary (starting with lunch on arrival day to breakfast on departure day). A single entry gorilla trekking permit. All ground transportation in a 4×4 WD vehicle. English speaking driver guide. Park fees and driver guide fees. Iby’lwacu village visit. 24/7 office support.
Price excludes:
International or local airfare and departure taxes. Excess baggage charges. Visas. Travel and medical insurance. Internet services. Items of a personal nature. Telephone calls. Laundry. Beverages. Tips/gratuities. Any activities not specified in the itinerary.
2025 Rates | |
Number of travellers | Cost per person sharing |
1 | US$ 3,935 |
2 | US$ 3,035 |
4 | US$ 2,720 |
6 | US$ 2,605 |
Price includes:
Transfer to and from the airport in Kigali on arrival and departure days. Two nights’ accommodation in Rwanda on full board. All meals mentioned in the itinerary (starting with lunch on arrival day to breakfast on departure day). A single entry gorilla trekking permit. All ground transportation in a 4×4 WD vehicle. English speaking driver guide. Park fees and driver guide fees. Iby’lwacu village visit. 24/7 office support.
Price excludes:
International or local airfare and departure taxes. Excess baggage charges. Visas. Travel and medical insurance. Internet services. Items of a personal nature. Telephone calls. Laundry. Beverages. Tips/gratuities. Any activities not specified in the itinerary.
Described by many as a life-changing experience, gorilla trekking is certainly one of Africa’s most sought-after bucket-list experiences. But perhaps more importantly, your gorilla trek directly empowers a huge ongoing conservation success story.
Your gorilla trekking adventure will take you through the verdant afro-montane forests of Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park. Of course, your main focus will be mountain gorillas (read more about these gentle giants here), but you will encounter other wonderful species, such as golden monkeys, colourful Rwenzori turacos and prehistoric three-horned chameleons - amongst others.
We provide a more detailed description of the trekking experience in the day-by-day itinerary below.
Your accommodation during the short but epic gorilla trek safari is as follows:
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge near Volcanoes National Park: This comfortable mid-range hotel is dedicated to catering for primate and volcano treks. It is a 10-minute drive from the Volcanoes HQ – the gathering place for all treks. Your en-suite rooms are large, charming and clean. Meals are buffet-style – a tasty affair. Facilities include wifi and satellite TV.
Flame Tree Village in the quiet suburb of Nyarutarama in Kigali and a 10-minute drive to Kigali International Airport. There are 20 spacious and homely villas and communal facilities include wifi, swimming pool, bar, indoor restaurant and an outdoor sitting garden area.
Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your Africa Geographic driver-guide, who will brief you on your Rwandan adventure. Your journey begins with a city tour of Kigali.
During the city tour, you'll visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a powerful and moving tribute to Rwanda’s past. From there, you'll proceed to the city centre for a leisurely lunch. Depending on timing, you may also explore the vibrant Kimironko City Market, perfect for sampling fresh local produce, and the Caplaki Handicrafts Market, where you can find authentic Rwandan souvenirs. If time allows, a stop at the Education Centre can be included as well.
In the afternoon, you’ll leave the bustling city behind and embark on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park—the world-renowned home of "Gorillas in the Mist." Upon arrival, you’ll check in at the Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, where you can unwind, explore your surroundings, and enjoy a home-cooked dinner at the lodge’s restaurant.
Start your day with an early breakfast before heading to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for your once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience. Hiking through the lush mountain forests of the Virunga slopes, you’ll be led by an experienced guide in search of these majestic and endangered primates. Once the gorillas are spotted, you'll have the privilege of spending one hour observing them in their natural habitat—a truly awe-inspiring encounter with one of the planet's most powerful creatures.
Tracking can be physically demanding, sometimes lasting up to six hours at high altitudes, but the reward is unforgettable. If you prefer a shorter trek, your driver-guide can arrange for a group suited to your abilities. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, and gloves (to protect against stinging nettles), and pack enough water, snacks, and sweets to keep your energy up during the hike.
After your morning of adventure, return to your lodge for a well-deserved lunch. In the afternoon, you will visit the Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village, where you’ll immerse yourself in Rwandan traditions and learn more about local life. Engage with the community, visit traditional homes, and enjoy vibrant cultural performances.
In the late afternoon, you will check out of your lodge and drive back to Kigali, where you will settle in for dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at The Flame Tree Hotel.
As your journey comes to an end, begin your morning with a leisurely breakfast at The Flame Tree Hotel, savouring the last moments of your time in Rwanda. After breakfast, your driver-guide will escort you back to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight, offering a final glimpse of the scenic landscapes that have made this trip so unforgettable.
As you leave behind the "Land of a Thousand Hills," you’ll take with you memories of encounters with the majestic gorillas, the warmth of local communities, and the beauty of Rwanda’s unique culture. Safe travels!
Free safari planning
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Gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda
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